Properties of Elements in Minerals

What happens to an element when it is part of a mineral like quartz?

A. The element loses its properties

B. The element gains new properties

C. The element remains the same

D. The element becomes radioactive

Final answer:

Answer:

When an element is part of a mineral, such as quartz, it gains new properties.

When an element such as silicon or oxygen is part of a mineral like quartz, it is different from its pure form because it is combined with other elements to form a compound. In the case of quartz, the main element is silicon, which combines with oxygen to form silicon dioxide (SiO2). This compound gives quartz its specific properties and structure.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B) The element gains new properties.

By being part of a mineral, elements undergo chemical reactions and interactions with other elements that result in the formation of a compound with different properties compared to its pure form. This process allows minerals like quartz to exhibit unique characteristics and functionalities.